Laser Profilometry

Definition - What does Laser Profilometry mean?

Laser profilometry is a procedure to measure a surface profile so that the roughness and cracks on the material being scanned are quantified. This procedure uses equipment known as a laser profilometer or laser mapper.

A laser profilometer is helpful in performing external corrosion mapping and laser profilometry examination when used in conjunction with automatic scanner systems. The laser beam varies in intensity depending on how shiny or dull the test materials's surface is to obtain a depth reading.

Corrosionpedia explains Laser Profilometry

Laser profilometers are used to perform laser profilometry. Profilometers are in the category of optical profilometers and do not make physical contact with the object's surface. They simply scan the surface with the help of a laser beam and evaluate the corrosion mapping.

A typical laser profilometry system includes a small and lightweight controller box, with a power supply and cable. The scanning equipment directs a laser beam onto the surface to be evaluated. The beam distance is measured and interpolated into a thickness value.